Strawberry Basil Cocktail Recipe

A refreshing strawberry basil cocktail with crushed strawberries, ice, and garnished with two small white flowers. Surrounded by fresh strawberries, lime slices, and basil leaves on a light background.

Strawberry Basil Cocktail Recipe

A Strawberry Basil Cocktail Recipe is the perfect summer drink, offering a delightful balance of sweet, herbaceous, and citrusy flavors. This vibrant cocktail, made with gin or vodka, is a refreshing choice for warm evenings, backyard parties, or special celebrations. The muddled strawberries release their natural juices, blending beautifully with the herbal notes of basil and the crisp, smooth taste of your chosen spirit. A splash of fresh lime juice and a hint of simple syrup balance the flavors, creating a well-rounded, easy-to-make cocktail. Serve this strawberry basil drink over ice for a stunning and delicious addition to any summer gathering.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword basil drink, cocktail drinks, drink recipe, strawberry basil cocktail, strawberry drink, summer drink recipe

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings drink

Calories 123kcal

Author Janine Waite

Equipment

1 muddler

Ingredients

4 strawberries muddled or smashed
2 basil leaves finely chopped
1 tbsp grenadine
1 tbsp simple syrup can use agave or honey
1 squeeze lime juice
1 oz vodka, gin, or rum
ice cubes
Basil leaf for garnish

Instructions

Muddle Ingredients
Muddling is a crucial step that helps extract the essential oils and juices from the fresh ingredients, enhancing the depth of flavor in your cocktail. In a cocktail shaker, add fresh strawberries and basil leaves. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to press them together gently. Be careful not to over-muddle the basil, as this can release bitter flavors. The goal is to lightly crush the leaves and berries so their natural juices blend harmoniously, creating a fragrant and flavorful base for your cocktail. In a cocktail shaker, add fresh strawberries and basil leaves. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to press them, releasing their natural juices and flavors gently.
Add Liquids
Pour in your choice of gin or vodka, along with fresh lime juice and simple syrup. Shake well to combine all the flavors.
Shake and Strain
Fill the shaker with ice, seal it, and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
Top and Garnish
Top with club soda or sparkling water and garnish with a fresh strawberry and basil leaf for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy immediately!

Nutrition